A randomized controlled trial comparing EUSOL versus antibiotic loaded collagen granules as dressing agents in the management of traumatic infected wounds

Background: Traumatic wounds are common cause of morbidity in Orthopaedic patients. There can be associated injury to various vital structures i.e bones, muscles, tendons, nerves and vessels. Despite recent advances in wound care, the challenge of managing chronic wounds remains compounded by a lack of consensus on clearly defined wound care principles. Methods: A randomised controlled trial was used to enrol 130 patients, out of which 65 underwent EUSOL dressing and 65 underwent collagen granules dressing, all the cases were admitted in Orthopaedics ward and were only discharge at the end of treatment or study period whichever was earlier, so there was no loss to follow up. Assessment of wound was done every week for a period of 4 weeks in terms of slough, discharge, granulation tissue, outcome and coverage. Results: Discharge from the wound was found to be lesser in collagen granules group and by the end of 3 and 4 week it was significantly lesser in collagen granules group (P value <0.05). Floor area covered with slough were lesser in collagen granules group, as early as 1 week (P value <0.05). Healthy granulation tissue, final outcome and coverage appeared earlier with collagen granules group. P value<0.05 by the end of 2 and 3 week. Total cost of therapy was less and patient compliance was better with collagen granules group. Conclusion: Antibiotic loaded collagen granules showed better results in terms of discharge, granulation tissue, healing, duration and cost of therapy, patient compliance and acceptability.